The first ever biodegradable vaccine to protect livestock from foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) has been developed through a research partnership between Meat & Livestock Australia, Tiba Biotech and the New South Wales Government, according to a report in Sheep Central.
By Roelof Bezuidenhout
According to the report the new vaccine demonstrated strong immune response and safety in trials in Germany. Vaccinated cattle did not contract FMD when exposed to the disease and, importantly, they did not spread the virus.
The new biodegradable vaccine uses mRNA to induce an immune response, rather than an actual virus.
“Australia is now at the forefront of livestock vaccine development, bringing with it the potential to develop manufacturing capacity, jobs and exports,” said Australian-based Tiba co-founder Peter McGrath.
Also read: FMD indaba | Steenhuisen on private vaccination
Unlike current mRNA technologies, these new vaccines could be stored long term at standard refrigeration temperatures and even at room temperature for at least one month. mRNA vaccines allowed the animal to create proteins and antibodies to trigger an immune response. They did this without entering the nucleus of cells and disappeared from the animal within days, leaving antibodies behind for protection against the virus.
The project is conducting similar research to develop a vaccine for lumpy skin disease, which is also a significant exotic disease threat to Australian livestock.
 | Roelof Bezuidenhout is a fourth-generation wool, mohair, mutton and game farmer and freelance journalist. Attended Free State University, majoring in animal husbandry and pasture science. Other interests include agricultural extension and rural development. |
